What’s the most important gear for a saddle hunter? Many say it’s the saddle itself, but we know the truth: your boots matter just as much! When you are high up in a tree, comfortable, secure footing is everything. A bad boot can lead to cold feet, sore arches, or even a dangerous slip. That’s where the trouble starts. Choosing the perfect boots for saddle hunting is tricky. You need warmth for those chilly mornings, excellent grip for climbing, and they must be light enough for long hikes.
It feels like you need a boot that can do everything! This confusion stops now. We have tested and compared the best options available. Keep reading to discover the top boots that will keep your feet happy and safe from the first step of the hike to the final descent. Get ready to find your next favorite pair of saddle hunting boots!
Table of Contents
Top Boots For Saddle Hunting Recommendations
- 10" tall leather uppers made from 2.8 mm full grain leather feature double and triple stitching throughout utilizing a one piece vamp construction with no seams down the tongue for comfort, abrasion resistance and additional moisture resistance. With care and maintenance the full grain leather will develop a patina of deep brown coloration featuring the scars of all your memorable hunts and hiking adventures until you consider them an old friend.
- The Kenetrek Grapon Outsoles provide exceptional grip and traction to stick to just about any surface you’ll encounter, from rocky ascents to slippery sidewalks. The 7 mm nylon midsoles offer a solid foundation for unparalleled stability on the most uneven surfaces. This incredible level of support translates into reduced foot fatigue, increased ankle protection and the peace of mind knowing your boots won't let you down.
- Scrambling up rough, rocky scree slopes, through thick brush and brambles and across fallen timber can do a number on your boots. The Kenetrek Elevated Extreme features reinforced rubber toe and heel guards for extra abrasion resistance from scrapes and scratch damage. It's a simple thing but goes a long way in protecting the life and longevity of your boots.
- Dry, comfortable feet have a direct impact on the success or failure of your hunting and hiking. Don't let one of your most memorable experiences be ruined by soaked, blistered feet. It is crucial to keep as much moisture and humidity out of your boots as possible with Kenetrek's durable Windtex waterproof membrane. The Elevated Extreme also features 1000 gram Thinsulate insulation to keep you warm and dry in the bitter cold or if you have to stand stationary for long periods.
- We don't cut corners on quality. The boot hardware is not your typical "stamped metal" hardware you see on other boots but a high quality forged alloy that offers corrosion resistance, increased durability and swivels instead of breaking when placed under stress.
- All-Day Performance: The removable polyurethane with memory foam footbed gives your feet long-lasting comfort, while high-rebound EnerG material delivers a recharging burst of energy with every step. The CuShin comfort tongue and memory foam collar help reduce pressure on your ankle and shin. ScentBan technology helps eliminate and resist odors.
- Tough Terrain Traction: Keep stability and traction through uneven terrain with the durable outsole with tapered rubber lugs and toe tread. The sole includes a comfortable shank which provides more stable footing and helps support your feet and calves.
- Waterproof Design: Full grain leather with abrasion-resistant ArmaTec XT material and honeycomb ripstop upper is protected with UltraDry waterproof construction that combines moisture management lining with waterproof components for dry, long-lasting comfort and performance.
- Lightweight Comfortability: Weight of the boot is reduced with PRM technology in the sole, a breakthrough composite material providing extreme comfort and added endurance. Engineered to provide the durability and strength of traditional materials without the extra weight.
- Platform Construction: Cement construction in the sole for added flexibility and a performance fit.
- ABSOLUTELY WATERPROOF -- OutdoorMaster Waterproof Hunting Boots, made of durable neoprene and natural rubber, offered 100% waterproof and engineered for the wet environments.
- INSULATED & BREATHEABLE -- Breathable and warm fabric for maximum comfort, built for the cold and wind, Stay UNCONDITIONALLY CONCENTRATED during hunting from 41°F to 14°F.
- EASY TAKE ON/OFF -- Strap handle and kick tab design, quick take on and kick off in cold weather.
- ANTI-SLIPPED & SHOCK ABSORPTION -- Rough grooved rubber soles offered strong traction and do the best to keep silence over rugged outdoors.
- PRIORITY SERVICE TEAM-- Contact us when you have any confused, we will give you solution in 24H. (ATTENTION: Please careful to check the size chart before ordered.)
- Camouflage Leather: Connect deeper in the woodlands with Mossy Oak Country Roots camouflage patterned full grain leather with flex areas and ArmaTec heel protection for durable, flexible comfort.
- All-Day Performance: Polyurethane foam footbed for underfoot comfort, while ScentBan technology helps eliminate and resist odors. EnerG high-rebound sugarcane EVA midsole fight fatigue with every step. 400g PrimaLoft insulation keeps you extra warm from cold temperatures.
- Tough Terrain Traction: Keep stability and traction in the elements with the Rubber Hex Lite wrap-up outsole with multi directional lugs designed to grab the ground in every direction.
- Waterproof Construction: UltraDry waterproofing and cement construction keeps your feet dry for long-lasting comfort and performance.
- Lightweight Comfortability: Stability and ankle protect from padded ankle pod, while the Cushin comfort tongue and stretch collar cushions calves and achilles.
- 【Waterproof and Insulated】5mm neoprene boots provide comfort and flexibility, fully waterproof, shock absorption and heat retention, keep your feet dry and warm. Natural rubber layers enhance durability and toughness, block out water and moisture, allow you to work well in wet and muddy conditions.
- 【Comfortable and Breathable】Lightweight cushioning EVA midsoles soften every step to provide all-day comfort. Comfort Massage Memory Foam Insole offers extra arch support. Breathable Mesh Lining allows air to travel throughout the boots, keep your feet cool and dry in warm weather.
- 【Anti-Slip and Ice Snow Grips Traction】Durable molded outsoles provide excellent stability and solid traction on a variety of terrain, ice, snow and other worst conditions, slip-resistant and self-clean. Reinforced rubber shell extends up above ankle and adds additional protection on the toe and heel.
- 【Durable and User-Friendly】HISEA Excursion Pro Men's Rain Boots have been upgraded in performance and quality, more durable than normal rain boots. The pull-on tabs at the back and kick plates help you put on and off with ease. Elastic shoe mouth and ankle height provide good flexibility to fit your foot shape.
- 【All Season and Multi-Functional】Slip into waterproof, breathable and comfort with HISEA Excursion Pro Men's Rain Boots. Perfect for all outdoor activities and adventure, such as gardening, camping, hunting, farming, yard working, hiking, fishing. Great choice for everyday chores and daytrips alike.
- Attention: Due to the 800g Thinsulate insulation may affect the internal width of the boots.Please double-check the size chart before buying to ensure a proper fit
- Waterproof & Breathable: Full rubber shell with sealed seams effectively keeps water out in marshes, streams, and muddy trails. Breathable Neoprene lining minimizes stuffiness, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable
- Insulated Warmth without Bulk: 800g Thinsulate Ultra insulation combined with 6mm neoprene locks in heat down to sub-zero conditions. These insulated boots keep you warm and protected while hunting, even in cold weather
- Comfort & Traction: Lightweight EVA midsole for comfort, a steel hook core for stability, and a rubber outsole for excellent traction on slippery surfaces. Experience comfort and security on your hunts
- Double Reinforcement & User-Friendly: HUNTHOR hunting boots have reinforced rubber shell for heel, Achilles tendon, and toe protection. The adjustable back gusset ensures a perfect fit for different calf sizes. Easy kick-off design allows for effortless shoe removal
- ALL-PURPOSE BOOTS – Our hunting boots for men are designed for the hard-working guys out there. Great all-purpose boots, perfect for a hunt, scouting, or simply tackling chores outside, they’ve got you covered
- STAY WARM AND COMFORTABLE – These insulated boots feature 1200 gram Thinsulate Insulation for chill-stopping warmth. A padded tongue and collar add additional comfort
- WATERPROOF BREATHABLE MEMBRANE – Waterproof boots with a breathable membrane that keeps water out while allowing vapor to escape. A moisture-wicking mesh lining wicks away moisture to keep your feet dry
- GRIPPING RUBBER SOLES – Oil-resistant, dual-density rubber lug outsoles provide durability and top traction. Height (approx.): 8.5"
- LONG-LASTING LEATHER UPPERS – Find quality craftsmanship and fine detailing in these leather boots for men. A leather and nylon uppers construction makes them extra flexible and durable
- Murray, William (Will) (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 208 Pages - 08/07/2024 (Publication Date) - Toplight Books (Publisher)
Choosing Your Perfect Saddle Hunting Boots: A Buyer’s Guide
Saddle hunting is an exciting way to pursue big game. You climb high into a tree, wait patiently, and hope for a clear shot. Your comfort and safety depend heavily on your gear. Good boots are vital. They keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable during long sits. This guide helps you pick the best boots for saddle hunting.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for saddle hunting boots, several features really matter. You need boots that handle the demands of climbing and long waits.
1. Insulation and Warmth
- Insulation Level: Check the insulation rating, often measured in grams (e.g., 400g, 800g, 1000g). More grams mean warmer boots. Choose insulation based on the coldest weather you expect to hunt in.
- Cold Weather Needs: If you hunt in freezing temperatures, pick high insulation. For early-season hunting, less insulation works better to prevent sweaty feet.
2. Waterproofing and Breathability
- Waterproof Membranes: Look for boots with quality waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex or proprietary brands. These keep rain and snow out.
- Breathability: Boots must let sweat escape. Wet feet get cold fast. Good breathability keeps your feet dry from the inside out.
3. Support and Traction
- Ankle Support: High-cut boots offer better ankle support. This is important when climbing or traversing uneven ground to your tree stand.
- Outsole Grip: The bottom of the boot (outsole) needs deep, aggressive lugs. This provides excellent traction on wet bark, mud, and icy branches.
4. Weight and Height
- Weight: Lighter boots reduce fatigue during long hikes to your hunting spot. However, very light boots might lack necessary insulation or support.
- Shaft Height: Taller boots (around 8 to 10 inches) help keep debris and water out. They also add crucial ankle stability.
Important Materials in Saddle Hunting Boots
The materials used determine how long your boots last and how they perform.
Uppers (The Main Body of the Boot)
- Leather: Full-grain leather is durable and molds to your foot over time. It requires regular maintenance (oiling and waxing) to stay waterproof.
- Synthetics (Nylon/Mesh): These materials are lighter and dry faster than leather. Many modern boots use a mix of leather and tough synthetics for the best blend of strength and light weight.
Soles and Midsoles
- Rubber Outsoles: High-quality, durable rubber offers the best grip. Avoid cheap, hard rubber, which loses traction in the cold.
- EVA or PU Midsoles: These layers cushion your foot. Polyurethane (PU) lasts longer and offers better support than lighter, cheaper EVA foam.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is not just about the brand name. Inspect the construction closely.
What Improves Quality:
- Cemented vs. Welted Construction: Boots with stitched soles (like Goodyear welt) often last longer and can be resoled. Cemented boots (glued) are usually lighter but harder to repair.
- Hardware: Strong metal eyelets and speed hooks hold up better than plastic parts, especially when you cinch your boots tight for climbing.
What Reduces Quality:
- Poor Seams: Look for tight, even stitching. Loose or uneven seams are weak spots where water easily enters.
- Over-reliance on Foam: If the entire sole is soft foam, it compresses quickly. This reduces support, and your feet will feel hard ground pressure.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you hunt. This dictates the best boot style for you.
The Climber/Walker (High Mobility Hunter)
You hike several miles to reach your spot and use climbing sticks or a rope system. You need boots that are relatively light but still offer great traction. Focus on boots with excellent ankle support and moderate insulation (400g-600g).
The Sit-and-Wait Hunter (Extreme Cold)
You often sit for 8 to 10 hours in very cold, stationary conditions. Your priority is maximum warmth. Look for heavily insulated boots (800g or higher). These boots might be bulkier, but they prevent frostbite during long, inactive periods.
The Mixed-Condition Hunter
You hunt in everything from mild rain to light snow. You need a versatile boot. Choose a mid-weight option with reliable waterproofing (like Gore-Tex) and medium insulation (around 600g). These boots perform well in a wider range of temperatures.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Saddle Hunting Boots
Q: Do I need special boots just for saddle hunting?
A: Not necessarily special boots, but you need boots optimized for climbing and long periods of sitting still in the cold. General hunting boots often work if they meet the warmth and traction needs.
Q: How much insulation (grams) should I choose?
A: If you hunt below freezing often, choose 800g or more. For mild weather above 30°F, 400g is usually enough.
Q: Are rubber boots good for saddle hunting?
A: Traditional tall rubber boots are very warm and waterproof, but they are heavy and lack good ankle support for climbing. Many hunters prefer modern, lighter hiking/hunting boots.
Q: Should I size up my boots for thick socks?
A: Yes. Always try on boots with the exact type of wool or synthetic socks you plan to wear hunting. Boots that are too tight restrict blood flow, making your feet colder.
Q: How do I keep my boots dry after a wet hunt?
A: Always dry them slowly at room temperature. Never place them directly next to a hot fire or heater, as this damages the glue and leather.
Q: What is the importance of the boot’s shank?
A: The shank is a stiff piece between the insole and outsole. It provides rigidity, which reduces foot fatigue when you stand on narrow steps or climb ladders.
Q: Do I need to break in my new boots?
A: Yes, most leather or heavily structured boots require break-in time. Wear them around the house or on short walks before relying on them for a full day in the tree.
Q: How high should the boot shaft be?
A: A shaft height of 8 inches or more is recommended. This protects your lower leg from brush and keeps water from splashing inside when you cross creeks.
Q: Are lightweight trail shoes okay for saddle hunting?
A: They are great for the walk in if you are a fast, light hiker. However, they usually lack the necessary insulation and ankle support needed for the actual sit and climb.
Q: Do expensive boots really last longer?
A: Often, yes. Higher prices usually mean better quality materials, superior construction methods (like better stitching), and more durable waterproof membranes.